The Pittsburgh Steelers will take on the Houston Texans Monday night at Heinz Field and they will do so without the services of nose tackle Steve McLendon.
During his Tuesday press conference, head coach Mike Tomlin ruled out McLendon for the Monday night game because of the right shoulder injury that he suffered in the loss Sunday to the Cleveland Browns. With McLendon out, Tomlin acknowledged that rookie nose tackle Daniel McCullers very well could dress and contribute for the first time this season.
Not surprisingly, Tomlin also ruled out cornerback Ike Taylor (forearm) for Monday night’s game. Taylor is still recovering from the broken forearm that he suffered back in Week 3.
Rookie linebacker Ryan Shazier (knee) will practice this week and his participation level will dictate whether or not he will play Monday night, according to Tomlin. The same goes for safety Shamarko Thomas (hamstring), who missed the Browns game with an injured hamstring.
Tomlin also said that defensive end Brett Keisel (knee) and safety Mike Mitchell (knee) will both be monitored closely this week. Both were unable to finish the game against the Browns due to knee sprains.
